NeckLift (Platysmaplasty) Plastic Surgery
Kyle S. Choe, MD Facial Plastic Surgeon, Virginia Beach, VA

Changes in the face and neck are the most obvious and earliest signs of aging. Turkey Waddle as it is often referred to, is caused as the sheet-like platysma muscle in the neck begins to sag. These bands become thick and cord-like and dangle between the jawbone and the collarbone. This becomes very unsightly for both men and women who are very “age-conscious” and who prefer not to live with these unwelcome signs of aging. Platysmaplasty necklift (most always performed with neck liposuction and full lower facelift) can correct this problem and turn back the clock.

Benefits of Neck Lift Facial Plastic Surgery:

• Neck Lift is safe and effective
• Neck Lift can re-contour a more youthful neck line
• Neck Liposuction lasts from five to ten years
• Neck Liposuction can be done with other facial plastic surgery procedures
• Neck Liposuction can make you look more youthful again!

Necklift - Platysmaplasty Facial Plastic Surgery Overview

Necklift surgery – also referred to as Platysmaplasty is usually done at the same time as neck liposuction and/or a facelift is performed. This ensures the most satisfactory outcome for restoring a more youthful neck with fat cells removed and loose muscles manipulated and tightened.

Necklift - Platysmaplasty Frequently Asked Questions:

How long will my surgery take? It will vary depending on your age, the condition of your neck including how much liposuction is needed and the condition of the platysma muscle. It should not take over 2-3 hours.

What kind of anesthetic will be used? Dr. Choe will use an IV sedation and local anesthetic – so you are asleep during your surgery and do not hear or feel anything. You will be completely comfortable.

How long should I plan to take off from work? You should be looking presentable to return to work within 7-10 days.

Will I experience much pain or discomfort? No. You will have swelling, bruising, some numbness and “pulling sensation” from the liposuction. This is normal and will be managed with pain medication. All symptoms decrease daily and are gone within a few short weeks.

Will my looks change drastically? No – you will still look like you – only a little younger and healthier! Most people will make remarks such as: “Gee you look great – or did you change your hairstyle, or have you been on vacation?”

Will my incisions be noticeable? No. Dr. Choe will make the incisions very inconspicuous by hiding them behind your ears and under your chin. They are made in “natural crease lines” so they are barely visible and heal very well. They are not noticeable at all after a few weeks.

How long before I will look normal again? Healing varies with each patient, but most of our patients are getting back to normal within 2-3 weeks and look great within 6 weeks. Within 6 months – your recovery is nearly complete.

Necklift - Platysmaplasty Facial Plastic Surgery Procedure:

After you are prepped and comfortable, Dr. Choe will proceed the same as for a neck liposuction procedure by making a small incision under the chin (in the natural crease so it’s hidden) and just below the earlobes (so small that they may need 1-2 stitches). Using the latest state-of-the-art instruments, he will work through these tiny incisions to manipulate and tighten the platysmaplasty muscle – and perform a necklift. The incisions are then closed and you will wake up with your head wrapped in order to create pressure, minimize swelling and protect the surgery. This head and chin dressing will remain on for 24 hours when you will return to our office for your post surgical check and dressing change. Please keep your dressing dry.

Preparation for your Necklift - Platysmaplasty surgery:

• Avoid taking aspirin, products that contain aspirin, ibuprofen or herbal medicines for 2 weeks prior to your surgery.
• Do not use cigarettes or nicotine products for 4 weeks prior to your surgery and for 10 days after.
• Do not use alcohol for 1 week prior to your surgery.
• Do not eat or drink after midnight the night before your surgery.
• A responsible adult must drive you to your surgery drive you home and stay with you for 24 hours.
• Plan to rest in bed – with the head elevated for one day. You will then continue to sleep with your head elevated using 2-3 pillows for 2-3 weeks.
• You must avoid bending, lifting, straining and other strenuous activities for at least one week – maybe longer – after your surgery.

When considering any facial plastic surgical procedure – remember that Board Certified surgeons are the most skilled and qualified. Dr. Choe is a board certified facial plastic surgeon, certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.